First Up

On and on winter seemed to go, month following month, unrelieved. Just when the greys and the browns threatened permanence, and greenery faded to a memory which maybe never really was after all, the earth stirred. Weary at first, a subtle softening here, a brief thaw there. Maybe a sporadic glint of brightness. Then, one…

Mushrooms, Most Honorable

Indeed, not only do shitake mushrooms bring today’s entry much regard, they also glorify it with anticipation of a great meal.  The Japanese invented a word to describe the fifth element to engage the tongue, umami.  The term has gained wide acclaim lately, both in and out of food circles, and it signifies a delightfully…

A Full Basket

A great way to exult in late summer’s benevolence is to wander the sun-dappled path meandering among the garden’s lushness, losing oneself as the occasional light breeze rustles the leaves and serenades a daydream.  When this reverie doesn’t transport you, you load a basket with anything that looks good.  Of course, by August just about…